NLC: Tinubu’s Economic Policies Worse than Jonathan, Buhari

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has criticized President Bola Tinubu’s economic policies, claiming that they are more detrimental than those of former presidents Goodluck Jonathan and Muhammadu Buhari.

In an interview with Daily Trust on Friday, NLC spokesperson Benson Upah stated that both Jonathan and Buhari’s administrations were more favorable for the Nigerian people. He particularly praised Buhari for making efforts to stabilize the country’s economy and improve living conditions.

Upah condemned Tinubu’s removal of the fuel subsidy, arguing that the president did not fully consider the far-reaching consequences of his decision. He also highlighted the impact of the current government’s policies on the exchange rate, comparing it unfavorably to Jonathan’s era.

“I keep telling people who criticize Buhari that they are mistaken,” Upah said. “From Labour’s perspective, we found Buhari to be accommodating. He took measures to ensure life was stable and bearable. For instance, when he took office, he provided funds to state governments to clear salary and pension backlogs, though some of these funds were misappropriated. He also made other interventions to curb unreasonable price hikes.”

Upah went on to note the growing dissatisfaction with Tinubu’s government, stating that many who previously criticized Buhari now view his administration in a more positive light.

“People are beginning to acknowledge that Buhari’s government wasn’t as bad as they thought. We’re talking about less than two years ago. Before Buhari, it was Jonathan’s government, and back then, we thought Jonathan had mismanaged the country. But now, when you compare economic indicators like the exchange rate, interest rate, and national debt, it’s clear that the situation is progressively worsening,” Upah concluded.